Local Artist/Designer Profile: Diana Schreiber of MOSS

Local artist/designer Diana Schreiber is the mastermind behind the charming creations of MOSS. Schreiber uses her love of fiber arts to create an irresistible array of work in a variety of styles and projects. Her amigurumi dolls are playful and bold, while her jewelry line is very feminine and sweet. To learn more about Schreiber and her designs, check out the interview after the jump.

MERCURY: Explain the genesis of MOSS.DIANA SCHREIBER: I've always been crafty all my life. To be honest, MOSS really started as a means to fund my obsession with materials for making things. I read an article about Etsy and at the time I signed up I was making little crochet creatures. I posted some online and it just picked up from there.

When and how did you learn to crochet?I learned it from my grandma. I think that's how most people pick it up. I was about seven or eight. She used to make crocheted dolls for my sisters and I, so that started my fascination with it. I still remember the first thing I made—it was supposed to be a doily and I used this really red thread and gold-plated hook (which, believe it or not, I got from the tooth fairy). It didn't turn out very pretty so I ended up using it as a faux hamburger patty for my play kitchen.

What have been some of your favorite amigurumi creations?Obviously, I love making the Sumos. I also made two-headed kitties and this one crocheted old potato that I couldn't believe somebody bought from me on Etsy.

What inspires you the most in your jewelry making?When I make my jewelry, I like to use techniques and materials that are a little unexpected. So I use crochet and embroidery elements in them. When people think about jewelry, they always expect metal, stone, wood, etc.—hard materials. I use cloth, yarn, and thread—soft materials—so it's a little bit different.

What are some of your favorite materials to work with?I love to work with yarn and I am definitely a fabric junkie. There is a very special place in my heart reserved for vintage polyester and kimono fabric.

What are some things you like to do for fun?I love making things! I also enjoy thrifting and looking for estate sales.

What's next for MOSS?I would like MOSS to move into using more recycled materials. I would definitely like to have a stronger local presence so hopefully I can find some stores that will carry my work. So watch out! Today, my basement; tomorrow, the world!